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How to Become a Mental Health Nurse
Mental Health Awareness Week has got us thinking about all the different kinds of roles nurses play and what different roles there are out there and how every single one plays a part in impacting the lives of their patients. We have put together some information on everything you need to know about the role of a mental health nurse who can prepare you on your journey to joining this respected profession. If you are wondering why choose mental health nursing as a career, this article is for you! What does a mental health nurse do? A registered mental health nurse is responsible for planning and providing support and medical care to people with mental health problems. What is the average salary for a mental health nurse, UK? On average, a band 5 (newly qualified) mental health nurse will earn a salary of £22,128 to £28,746 per year. Do mental health nurses get paid more? That depends on your qualifications and level of experience. As you progress, you'll work up through the bands. The most experienced Nurses work at Band 6 or 7 with salaries ranging from £26,565 to £41,787. What are the qualities and skills of a mental health nurse? If you are thinking why choose mental health nursing as a career, then understanding if your interpersonal skills match with these skills will help you decide whether to pick this as a profession or not. Assessing and planning nursing care requirements Visiting patients at their homes Building relationships with patients Reassuring, listening and talking to patients and their loved ones Combating stigma and helping patients and families deal with situations Administrating medication Writing and updating patient records Liaising with doctors, social workers and other health and social care professionals Where can you get hired as a mental health nurse? The NHS General, psychiatric and secure hospitals Residential and nursing homes Community and rehabilitation units Special units within prison services What qualifications do you need to work with mental health? The main qualification you need is a Mental Health Nursing Degree. However, it is also desired that you have the following qualities: Good health and fitness The ability to empathise with people Good understanding of the theories of mental health Excellent teamwork skills Resilience Stamina Observation skills Communication skills Ability to stay calm and think quickly in challenging situations Skilled in decision making How to prepare for a mental health nurse job interview? If you are looking for mental health nurse jobs near me, then it would be good to prepare yourself for the job interview. Here are some common questions that might be asked: What experience do you have? What are the key tasks you think will be entailed with this job? What are the biggest risks of Mental Health Nursing? Why do you want this job? Why do you want to work for us? How would you handle complaints made by patients? How would you improve the quality of care provided? What’s the best approach to dealing with challenging patients and situations? Now you have an understanding of how a day in the life of a mental health nurse looks like, you can pursue mental health nursing as a career. Would you like to consider working as an agency nurse with Swanstaff? Then, fill the form given below and we will be in touch soon to match you with the role that fits you the most. Form ID:5353
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4 Top Reasons Why You Should Consider Agency Work as a Nurse
If you want a rewarding nursing career without some of the stresses of NHS nursing such as increasing workloads, lowering morale and poor pay, you can explore the option to work for an agency. There are many benefits of agency nursing; the top ones being higher pay rate and flexible hours of work. According to Adzuna, “Year-on-year pay for Agency nurse jobs has gone up 7.9% year-on-year, compared to an annual change of -0.4% for all jobs.” Agency nursing is becoming a preferred choice among nurses as hospitals are considering agency nurse job roles as a great resource to fill the staffing gaps. Here are some of the key benefits of agency nursing: 1 - Higher Pay Rate: As a nurse, you tend to get a higher hourly rate than for full-time permanent roles. According to the most recent agency nurse salary trends by Adzuna - a global job aggregator website, the average Agency nurse salary is £46,263, compared to the average NHS nursing salary of £36,435. Nurses are in high demand in the UK so if you want full-time hours you will not have any trouble achieving this. Equally, you will have the flexibility to choose a permanent role and work additional hours for an agency on your days off to increase your earning potential as a nurse. 2 - Skills Development: In order to expand your skillset and widen your career progression routes, agency nursing offers a variety of settings and training. If you want a higher pay rate, then you need to be an experienced nurse. A good agency usually offers training so you can upgrade your skills and have a better chance of landing nursing jobs with a higher pay rate. So, choosing an agency helps you build your career as a nurse. Here are some of the most common skills needed to be a good nurse: Good Health and Fitness Empathetic Adaptability Team Player Resilient Stamina Good Observation Excellent Communication Calm in Challenging Situations Quick Decision-making Ability 3 - Flexible Hours: Setting your own hours is another major benefit of working with an agency. You can choose the shifts you want to work on. For instance, if you want to work your shifts around childcare or other personal commitments then agency nursing is worth considering as a part-time nurse. If you've retired from full-time nursing but still want to have an income, then agency work will suit your lifestyle. 4 - More Work Opportunities: As an agency nurse, you get the opportunity to work in a wide variety of situations and areas. For example, you may have always worked in a hospital setting and want to move across to another department such as Elderly Care. With a temporary nurse role, you can build your experience in this area and gain relationships with one or more organisations who may then consider you for a full-time permanent nurse role. Would you like to know more about how to become an agency nurse? Then, please fill the form given below and we will be in touch. Form ID:5353
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5 Essential Items to take to Your Job Interview
Congratulations! You've managed to complete the first step in your search for a new job. You've got your foot in the door by securing yourself a job interview. You may already be excited but slightly anxious as your interview date approaches. You've done all the preparation you feel you needed to do and by now you're feeling confident that you're ready to tackle this challenge. It's the day before your interview and so it’s probably best to get everything you need to take with you together in preparation ahead of the big day, maximising your chances of acing your job interview. Wondering what you should take? Let me break it down for you... 1- A printed version of your CV This is a key item to take to your interview, although you will probably find that your interviewer has a copy already it is a good idea to have a copy of your own CV just in case they do not or if you are asked to talk through your CV you’ll have this as a prompt. 2- Your mobile phone Now this one may sound silly as there are not many people who don't seem to have their phone less than a meter away from them. Nevertheless, it’s worth putting it on your checklist. If you were to run into traffic on your way to your interview or needed to look something up last minute then you are going to need your phone to ensure you can call ahead and let your interviewer know you're going to be late, because of course, first impressions are important. 3- Copies of qualifications & certificates It is pretty common for you to be asked to bring along details of qualifications/certificates you have gained that prove you meet the job specification. Even if they have not asked you to bring them it is worth getting this prepared just in case! Make sure that you have all the official documents ready prior to your interview day to avoid giving yourself something extra to worry about on the day. 4- A notepad and a pen Ensure you take some form of notebook and pen with you, preferably a black biro because you never know when you're going to be asked to fill out a form. You can also use it to write prompts or questions you might want to ask in the job interview or to take some notes to follow up after the job interview. 5- A smart bag Now that you know what you need to take with you you're going to need a smart, appropriate bag to put everything in. Take some time when considering this, think about the environment you are applying to work within and decide based on this which type of bag would be most suitable. Are you looking for temporary or permanent work? Please fill the form given below and we will be in touch soon to discuss options that fit you the most. Form ID:5353
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Workplace Culture: Which F.R.I.E.N.D.S Personality Are You?
Over the years we have laughed and cried along with the TV series FRIENDS. In every situation, you find yourself, whether its job search or at work, you can learn a thing or two from these well-known Friends characters. So, which FRIENDS personality are you? Here are some career lessons that you can apply to be better at work: 1) Don’t bring your problems to work with you - Ross Geller Nothing is more unprofessional than speaking to your co-workers (especially a figure of authority) about the negative aspects of your personal life. Ross has anger issues and projected his anger towards his boss at work. Don’t be like Ross. Don’t cry over a sandwich. via GIPHY 2) Perform not-so-likable aspects of your job with a smile - Rachel Green Don’t assume that you will love every aspect of the job you are going for. Rachel thought she would never have to make coffee again, and yet she ended up doing the coffee runs for her new office. There is always going to be one or two things you would prefer not to do in your job role. However, if you love the majority of your duties then go for it. 3) Face your fears head-on - Chandler Bing Sometimes you are required to work with people who you would prefer not to spend your time with. However, you will need to swallow those feelings and focus on the work you are meant to be completing. You might think that you cannot decide on which career path to take. For example, Chandler worked at a company where he earned well but did not like the work. He then got out of his comfort zone and decided to leave that well-paid job to do an internship in an advertising agency, a career he wanted to explore. At first, Chandler ran from his fears of job security but decided to step out of his comfort zone and do something he actually liked. via GIPHY 4) Never agree to take a job that you dread the thought of - Monica Geller Never agree to take a job that you dread the thought of. This is wasting both your time and the employer’s time. It will also affect the other staff and their attitude as they may become hateful towards you if you are unmotivated and not doing your bit to contribute to the team. If you are already in a job you dislike then instead of suffering in silence, you need to figure out what is going wrong for you and talk to someone about it. See if anything can change, if it can’t, then maybe it’s time to look elsewhere. via GIPHY 5) There is nothing to be embarrassed about your job - Joey Tribianni The most important thing to remember about a job is to not be embarrassed by it. You are independent and earning your own money, there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Joey tried to hide his job at the coffee house from the rest of the group due to the fact that he was embarrassed however when they all realised that he was an employee, they were nothing but supportive. 6) Be motivated and willing to go the extra mile - Phoebe Buffay Despite growing up living on the streets with no family or friends to support her, Phoebe managed to land herself a job as a masseuse and ended up being able to share an apartment with Monica. This motivation and willingness that Phoebe shows can be transferred into employment and shows that as an employee you are able to do anything you put your mind to as long as you are motivated and willing to do so. Phoebe is the most motivated of the entire group, are you like Phoebe at your workplace? Enjoyed this blog? You might like: How to beat the winter blues at the workplace 10 ways you can share happiness in the workplace How to manage stress in the workplace How to support your mental health in the workplace Are you searching for a job or looking for a new role? Fill the form given below and we will be in touch soon. Form ID:5353
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5 Top Tips to Ace Your First Day as an HGV Driver
Firstly, congratulations on successfully getting through the dreaded interview stages. Now for the hard part, actually starting! Your first day as an HGV Driver at your dream company is fast approaching, nerves are to be expected, but we’re here to help. Your first day at any job can be daunting but just remember to do the best you can. To help assist you in your success we’ve put together some tops tips for you to follow to ace your first day as an HGV Driver… #1 – Don’t be afraid to ask questions It is better to be safe than sorry, so definitely ask questions about anything you are unsure about and do not just assume anything. No question is a silly question. #2 – Take your time and don’t rush This tip is especially important when conducting your daily morning vehicle checks. It is better to take your time and really check everything is in order than to quickly glance at it and guess it will be ok. Remember if you’re driving in difficult weather conditions to consider the factors that come with this. #3 – Ensure your load is safe As an HGV Driver, it is your responsibility to ensure that your load is secure. Just because someone else says it is secure doesn’t mean it is. So before you head off you must complete all your checks to ensure your load is safe and secure. #4 – Do not drive if you are overtired You know your body better than anyone else. If you are feeling tired, don’t risk it. Take regular breaks and never start a long journey if you are feeling tired. #5 – Remember you are only human Everyone who is trying something different for the first time will be nervous – it’s natural. Every driver had to start somewhere, only time and experience will help. Try to stay calm and relaxed and keep a positive mindset. If you’re currently looking to start your career as an HGV Driver and you aren’t sure where to start now that you have your licence then make sure you head over to our job search page or simply fill in the form given below and we will be in touch soon. Form ID:5353
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How your attitude can improve your career prospects
So, you’ve learnt how to ace an interview, the biggest interview mistakes and how to avoid them and how to impress on your first day. Now, it’s about time we taught you how to keep progressing in your job after you’ve been hired… and it’s all about your attitude. #1 – Do your job well So, this one is a bit of a given but if you’re satisfied in your role and enjoy going to work – it does reflect in the work that you produce. A positive attitude is vital! If you do not enjoy your job – your work reflects how you feel towards it. So find the positives in your job role and you will be much happier. If the case is that you don’t enjoy your job, then you need to think about sitting down with your manager and discussing your issues to see if anything can be done to support you – leaving the company should be the last resort. #2 – Form a relationship with your boss Forming a relationship with your boss (and other members of your team) is really important. You spend 5 (sometimes more) days a week with them so it would make your working life more enjoyable if you did have a good relationship with them. Due to this making your working life better – you will enjoy going to work more and then in turn, produce good work. #3 – Become a company person Put in the hours to show that your job is a priority to you. Make it clear that the company’s goals are also your goals. Be prepared to occasionally arrive early, stay late and always work hard during your standard working hours. Show that you are willing to give up some of your personal time to meet the company’s requirements and ensure the company is where it needs to be, this could also include taking time to socialise outside of work with colleagues – a great way to build bonds and strengthen your ties with a company. #4 – Volunteer for new projects Putting yourself forward for new projects or completing tasks usually done by other people will show that you care about the business as a whole and not just your individual role. Even if your work load gets bigger, more intense and more time consuming, it will more than likely secure your place in the company in the long run and being proactive is a great way to boost career prospects, develop new skills and put your stamp on things! #5 – Don’t grab the lime light Whilst it’s important for your boss to recognise that you’re doing great work and doing well – you don’t want to be seen as an attention grabber. It’s okay to celebrate your achievements, but just be sure to do the same when it happens to others. Most people will come across times when they have to maximize their efforts to protect and keep their jobs or to be successful in securing a promotion. By following our advice, you’ll learn how to progress your career and be rewarded.
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5 Easy Ways to Ace Your Next Job Interview
Do you have a job interview approaching? We know it's your big day, so here are our 5 top tips to make sure you ace your job interview: 1 - Know the company and the interviewer Just like tennis players should know the court they are playing on – you should know the company you are interviewing for! You can do this by checking out their website and social sites. It is also a good idea to find out key things about the person who will be interviewing you. You can do this by searching them on LinkedIn to find out how long they have worked there and what their achievements are. If you want to go down a more personal route, you could also look into their hobbies and interests by having a cheeky peak at their social media. 2 - Ask questions To build a rapport with your interviewer, don’t just answer their question and wait silently for their next one. Build on their question and start a conversation. Ask them about their job role and how they overcome the problems they face. Also listen to what their answers are to your questions, as they will be paying attention as to how much you’ve been listening. Remember if this is a face to face interview, to keep good eye contact to keep the conversation flowing or if it is a telephone interview remember to smile. You can hear the difference. 3 - Show your passion It’s not enough to simply want a job; you need to be able to express your enthusiasm and your desire for that position at this particular company. Being able to answer the common interview question “What do you know about us?” in detail will show that you have put the time into researching the company and you are passionate about working for them. 4 - Wear appropriate attire Wearing the appropriate attire can make or break an interview. If you are unsure of what their usual work attire is, then why not send a quick email to double-check with your interviewer what you are expected to wear rather than just guess and get it completely wrong. If in doubt, dress in smart business wear or alternatively check their social media feeds. This all comes down to good interview preparation. Imagine you are in a group interview and all of the other candidates are in professional clothing and you're in casual clothes - embarrassing right! 5 - Ask about their company culture In any job interview, you should always ask about their company culture to see if you could see yourself working in that specific environment. Here at Swanstaff, we have a work hard – play hard culture, we go over the top on birthdays and we have some of the craziest team members in our Head Office and Branches located up and down the UK. Now that we have prepared you for your interview, it’s your turn to go and smash it out of the park! Just remember to smile, be yourself and be confident and you’ll ace it! If you are looking for a new role with us at Swanstaff, please fill the form given below and we will be in touch soon. Form ID:5353
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4 ways to give valuable feedback after an interview
Job seekers are looking to find the right company that will fit them just as much as employers are seeking candidates that will fill their role and fit company culture. With this in mind, you should always where possible provide feedback to the candidate once you have let them know they have been unsuccessful. Here are our top tips on how to give your candidates valuable feedback after an interview! #1 – Don’t be overly harsh and critical Being overly critical is something you should definitely try to avoid. You should include both constructive criticism and praise. Try to give some form praise once before providing constructive criticism and once after, this can give the candidate a sense of confidence and a goal to aim for their next interview. #2 – Aim to help! Feedback should be meaningful – avoid listing off negative things about the candidate. Focus on one or two things that are specific to the job and the culture fit. #3 – Be precise, not personal To ensure your feedback is effective you will need to explain the situation not the person. For example you could say “We noticed you was late to the interview – maybe you could try to manage your time a bit better” instead of “you was late, that’s not good enough”. #4 – Tell the truth All candidates deserve honesty. Telling them that they were great in the interview (when you both know they wasn’t) won’t earn their respect and it will leave them confused as to why you won’t hire them even though you’re saying they were great! If you’re reading this it must mean you’re interviewing to grow your team! Click here to see what our recruiters could do for you!
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The role of a Healthcare Assistant
Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) work within a variety of NHS Hospital and community settings. Their specific duties depend on the area they work in however; in the next paragraph I will be outlining the general duties for you. The average rate of pay for a Healthcare Assistant is around £8.21 to £14 per hour. The daily duties of a HCA Observing, monitoring and recording patient’s conditions by taking temperatures, pulse, respirations and weight. Communicating with patients, their relatives/loved ones and carers. Assisting with clinical duties. Personal care including infection prevention and control, food and personal hygiene. Overall reassurance, comfort and safety. Checking and ordering supplies. Qualifications to be a HCA Although there are no set entry requirements you need to become a HCA – some employers may ask if you have: Grade A-C in English and Maths Healthcare qualification such as a BTEC or an NVQ in a Healthcare field Certain amount of experience in a Healthcare setting Skills you’ll need to be a HCA A caring nature An approachable nature An open mind Interpersonal skills Good communication skills Good listening skills Respect for client confidentiality Flexibility Ability to work as part of a team Ability to remain calm and patient in tough situations Good organisational skills Typical HCA interview questions What made you chose this area of Healthcare over others? Why do you think it’s essential to keep records? Give me an example of a time when you’ve had to use your initiative How would you care for the families of patients who are particularly distressed? Are you comfortable working anti-social hours? Can you describe a stressful experience you’ve had and explain how you coped with it? Can you describe what you think a HCA does and what type of people or groups you could possibly work with? Now you know everything you need to know about becoming a Healthcare Assistant - why don't you take a look at the Healthcare jobs we have available for you here! Don't feel like being a HCA is for you? No problem - take a look at our previous blog The role of a Support Worker!
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Interview body language dos and don'ts
First impressions are not only vital, but are nearly impossible to change. Did you know on average it takes just seven seconds for someone to create their first impression of you? In an interview, you are judged from the very minute you walk into the building, so greet everyone you come into contact with, with a smile and speak clearly… you never know who’s opinion could be the make or break of your job offer. We have put together some body language dos and don’ts for when you attend an interview. Check them out… DO’S Walk in confidently Don’t portray yourself as being scared of the interviewer or nervous around them. Walk in with confidence and give them a firm handshake, although don’t be too over confident that you come off as if you think you’re too good for the role. Sit right back in the chair and sit up straight, do not slouch – it can make the interviewer think you are not taking it seriously. Keep eye contact Keeping eye contact with your interviewer is the best way to show you’re actually paying attention and engaging with the situation. Of course this doesn’t mean stare blankly at them, but strive to hold eye contact for a few seconds at a time. If you’re meeting with more than one interviewer, be sure to make eye contact with all of them. Address the person who asked the question, then hold eye contact with the other interviewer for a few seconds, before returning your attention to the first interviewer. Smile Smile and nod where appropriate, and laugh when the interviewer does. You want to show you have a personality and you’re paying attention to what’s being said. It goes without saying that you should listen to the interviewer and try not to interrupt. Focus on keeping your tone of voice relaxed and polite. Too soft and you’ll seem timid, too loud and you’ll seem overbearing. DON’TS Slouch Sitting hunched forward, or lounging with arms and legs everywhere has the effect of looking a little too relaxed. You don’t want to sit there tightly clutching your fists in your lap, but you also don’t want to portray a casual, not bothered attitude. From the moment you arrive in the reception area, you need to keep your posture perfect. Always be aware of your body position. Sit up straight and lean forwards a little when you’re asked question, it gives a sense of curiosity and engagement. Zone out This is a big no-no! This could possibly be one of the worst things you could do in an interview as it says to the interviewer that you couldn’t be less interested in the opportunity possibly being given to you. It is likely that if you do zone out, the interviewer will just terminate the interview and ask you to leave! Fidget This includes tapping your fingertips in the arm rest or jiggling your leg up or down. It’s a sign of boredom and impatience. Keep both feet planted firmly on the floor to avoid the temptation. It’ll help to keep your posture straight and focussed on your interviewer, which in turn will make you seem more focused. Chew gum Do not chew gum in the interview room. This is really unprofessional and it can make the interviewer think you’re not interested in what they think of you. It also makes you look like you’re too comfortable meeting them, you should be a little bit nervous as this could be your new career! Do you have an interview coming up and are not sure what to where to look professional? Click here to follow our top tips. Can you think of any other Dos and Don’ts for interview body language? Drop them in the comments below!
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6 reasons you should consider a career in Healthcare
If you like a challenge and have a passion for helping others, then a career in healthcare could be the right job for you. With a range of possibilities, here are our six reasons why you should consider a career in healthcare. Healthcare offers a variety of opportunities Working in healthcare isn’t restricted to just one or two roles. In fact, there are a range of different career paths which you could choose to pursue. For example, you could be studying cells, fixing broken bones, cleaning teeth or delivering babies. If you enjoy working with people, then you could choose to become a nurse, physician or occupational therapist. Or, if you prefer solitary work then working in a medical laboratory could be the right role for you. So, whether you want to study medicine, work in a busy hospital or doctor’s office, or even if you’re just looking for something to match your skills, the range of opportunities is endless. Healthcare is in demand With the demand for healthcare professionals continuously on the rise, it means the career opportunities are rising along with it. It also means that there are plenty of additional training programmes on offer, which enable you to expand your knowledge and experience. Learn with the best of both Training facilities in healthcare enable you to learn in a classroom and also in an environment where you can take on a more hands on approach. Often you’ll have the chance to work in a hospital, clinic or lab that not only provides you with physical skills and experience, but also enables you establish which area of healthcare you would like pursue. Healthcare is always a challenge Working in healthcare gives you the chance to work with people from all walks of life. This means that there will never be a dull moment in the workplace. Each challenge is different and requires you to think of various ways to solve each problem. You'll also work in a team to overcome challenges and share a genuine passion for helping others. Great pay and benefits With the NHS being one of the most prominent healthcare service providers in the UK, it also offers one of the best pension schemes. Alongside this, annual reviews take place to help with your own personal development. There's also a range of opportunities in private healthcare. Companies within this sector provide regular training programmes, life insurance and flexible working hours. With added bonuses and generous holiday allowances, working in healthcare certainty has a range of benefits. Working in health care is highly rewarding Whether it's mentally or physically, it can be hugely satisfying knowing one the biggest benefits of working in healthcare is making a difference to someone's life. Whichever path you wish to take, the opportunity to help others will always be the common goal and you can guarantee that the work you'll be doing will help make someone's life a little better. Final thoughts Working in healthcare certainly isn’t always easy, but it’s extremely rewarding. So, with hundreds of opportunities across the industry, why not make the most of this incredibly fulfilling career that largely rewards its employees. This blog was written by Jack Lloyd from CV Libary. CV-Library boasts a range of vacancies, from sales, to teaching. It is one of the UK’s leading job boards and owns a handful of sector specific career sites, including Jobs Medical.
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Why I chose to be an Apprentice
During sixth form I was achieving good grades and knew I was going to complete my A levels with great results. It was then everyone started talking about “what is next?”. But whilst you’re in sixth form there is so much pressure from teachers to go to University. Despite this, I knew I wanted to go straight out into the working world and gain experience. I spoke to my teachers about other opportunities for me rather than going to university. There were several areas to go when leaving school such as completing a college course, going straight into a full time job, or get an apprenticeship. I chose to become an apprentice and am thrilled with how it has turned out. Being an apprentice means I am earning and learning at the same time. Apprenticeship courses are based around the role or area of the business you work in; I am currently completing my Administration Apprenticeship within Swanstaff Recruitment. This company has made my apprenticeship interesting and fun. It has given me the opportunity to learn so much about businesses and how they run. An apprenticeship involves completing coursework and training with regular visits from a tutor to help marking your work and discussing your progress. I really enjoy my apprenticeship and I feel like it has really helped me get a “foot in the door” as people say. I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who is looking to get straight into work but wants to continue learning at the same time! Written by Sian Goldfinch Reception Apprentice at Swanstaff Recruitment
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4 ways to impress on your first day
So your CV cinched an interview, the interview impressed your potential employers and you got an offer from your dream job. Now all you have to do is get through your first day and make sure that all important first impression is a good one. You might be feeling nervous, but don’t worry, we have four simple tips that you can use to make sure your first day goes smoothly and is memorable for all the right reasons. Dress to Impress Looks aren’t everything but it is proven that when you look good, you feel good. Feeling good will make you more confident and let’s face it, everyone gets those first day nerves so you’re going to need the added confidence boost. Make sure you know the office dress code and plan your outfit in advance. You could even get it out and ready the night before to make sure you don’t have a panic finding it in the morning. Be Prepared Just like you had to prepare for an interview, you need to be sure you have everything you might need for your first day. Make sure you have a good knowledge of your new role and company (If you’re not sure how to research a company, check out our blog which will help guide you in the right direction). It is also worth bringing a pen. Though they will have plenty, it’s good to have it if you’re asked to sign or write something. There’s no harm in being prepared. Don’t forget that you can always speak to the person who hired you if you’re not sure what to bring. Be Punctual Have everything you need for your first day ready the night before. You need to make sure you get a good night’s sleep and you don’t want to wake up and rush around. Make sure you know your journey to work and do a practise run if you’re not confident on the route. It’s worth leaving a little earlier to give you time for train cancellations and other typical work journey troubles! Get Involved Start as you mean to go on! You don’t have jump into doing anything too drastic but make sure you ask lots of questions and offer to help where you can. Being proactive makes a great first impression. If you have a quiet moment where you haven’t been given something, take that time to organise yourself or ask someone if you can help out in any way. This could be anything from scanning things at the printer to answering the phones for someone. Just show that you are willing to help. If you’re looking for a new job then check out our branch locator to find your nearest Swanstaff team. Our expert recruiters will be able to help and offer advice, so all you have to worry about is those first day nerves!
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4 ways to find your dream job this year!
So it’s the New Year. The time for making plans and resolutions for what we want 2018 to be. If one of your resolutions is to look for new jobs in the New Year then you are one of the one in four Brits planning this move. So with that in mind here are our top tips to help you find your dream new job in 2018. CV Spruce Up At the beginning of the year, recruiters and employers are swamped with applications from lots of people with the same idea as you. With 1 in 4 looking for a new job it’s important to make sure that you stand out from the crowd. Take the time to tailor your CV to the roles you are applying for. You can do this by using keywords from the job advert and ensuring you personalise your cover letter. Know How to Network Recruiters and employers are using social networks more and more to advertise positions and source talent. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and that you are connected with as many people in the companies you want to work with as possible. This will give you a better chance of seeing the roles advertised first. Be Prepared Whether it’s for an over the phone interview or a face-to-face, make sure you are prepared. I don’t mean you need to have carefully rehearsed answers for every question they might ask, but making sure you have a good understanding of the role and the business will make your interview more efficient and help you to come across more professional. Speak To An Expert Get advice from a specialist recruiter. It’s their job to know the industry you work in and they will be able to advise and guide you to help you find a new job. They can help you to improve your CV and put you forward for multiple roles. If you would like one of our specialist recruiters to help you find a new job for the New Year, you can find your local branch here.
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5 warning signs that you need a new job
Everyone has those days at work where they feel bored or frustrated. It’s inevitable. But if you find yourself having more bad days than good then it may be time to look for a new job. Not sure if this is you? Have you noticed one or more of these tell-tale signs? The Monday Feeling Lots of people get the Monday blues, especially after they’ve had a fun weekend. However, you shouldn’t be dreading going to work or feeling anxious on Sunday evening. If you’re in the right job, you should be able to enjoy the time that you are not at work, without worrying about when you are next in. No Recognition This is a big one. Recognition can be anything from a thank you for doing something to pay rises or promotions. It can also include being consulted and being given the opportunity to learn new skills to develop in your role. If you feel ignored or underappreciated then it may be time to look for a workplace where you will feel valued. No Challenge If your role doesn’t challenge you then you will very likely become bored. If you find yourself clock watching or finding the role mindless then it may be worth looking at something else. No Future If you’re struggling to see a future at your company, either due to lack of development or nothing for you to move into then you may again find yourself bored. It’s important to have something to work towards and a clear goal in mind to motivate you. Without a plan for meaningful career development you may need to look for a new role. No Change If you’ve spoken to someone about needing things to change or concerns about your role and nothing has improved then it may be better to change your job rather than continue to try to change the way the company is working. If you’ve noticed one or more of these things then it may be worth you thinking about moving on. If you’d like a free confidential chat with one of our recruiters about how Swanstaff can help you find a new role, then you can find your local branch here.
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5 career lessons you can take from Game of Thrones
With the release of Season 7 of Game of Thrones this weekend we've decided to think about the career lessons you can take from it. So maybe climbing the career ladder isn’t exactly like being Ruler of the Seven Kingdoms/King of the Andals and the First Men/Protector of the Realm. BUT getting your foot in the door of your dream company and getting into the job you really want could involve a few battles and facing some dragons of your own! So here are a few lessons we can all take from the most and least successful social climbers in Westeros and beyond! (Please be aware there are some spoilers if you aren't up to date) Networking is key Now I’m the first to say I don’t think much of Littlefinger, but he is pretty clever at using his network to help him climb. After all, his connections got him sent to the Vale and a title or two. It was his ability to help people that made him these friends, some of which owed him favours for that help. Maybe you know someone who knows someone? The lesson to be learnt here is, help your connections. They may not have something you need now, but they could in the future so help where you can! Learn to prioritise As much as it is admirable to hold onto a company, project or person you care about, if it isn’t working knowing when to stop is almost as important as fighting onwards. This doesn’t have to mean the end of your pet project; it may just mean coming back to it at a later date. It’s like the struggle of Ser Jorah Mormont. Though I feel for him and respect his determination to get back into the good books of the woman he obviously loves, it is quite clear he should be channelling his efforts into others things (like finding the cure for greyscale and not dying!). I’m not saying abandon every difficult project, but definitely learn to prioritise. When leading make sure to assemble a good team (that’s not out to kill you) The most important thing to remember is trust matters. Trust is not a common commodity in the Seven Kingdoms but it could make all the difference for some of the most beloved characters. Take Daenarys and her team of advisers for example. Daario is all about the ego, Jorah was too in love with her to make a rational decision especially if it came down to her safety or the safety of her people, and though Barristan seems loyal, who can she really trust? If you are constantly questioning if someone is using you to climb, or suggesting things for their own gain, then maybe it’s time to find a different team. Don’t annoy/cut off your network Although I recommended assembling a team that you can trust in the previous point, make sure you don’t do a Cersei. When she ends up running the country, she soon becomes paranoid and cuts off people that could be valuable allies, even if they have not given her a reason not to be trusted. This does nothing for her and she’s soon out of favour and into a cell! Instead of constantly questioning motives without cause, make sure to cultivate your network and provide value to your connections. This could be in the form of industry news, introducing connections to one another or writing articles about topics that could be of interest. Always have an “elevator pitch” ready You never know when you could run into someone who could give you an opportunity or offer you the chance you have been waiting for. As Tyrion (who I’m pretty sure has had more close encounters with death than any other character on the show) has proved, talking someone into believing you’re worth keeping alive (or hiring!) can really be life changing. Always try to have a pitch prepared to talk your way into that dream job and don’t forget it’s ok to sing your own praises once in a while. Can you think of any lessons you could take from Game of Thrones that might relate to your career? If you're looking for a career you won't end up losing your head over, get in touch with our recruiters at your local branch here or check out all our jobs here.
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Why I chose an Apprenticeship
Written by Stephanie Taylor, Business and Marketing Apprentice at Swanstaff Recruitment. In 2014 I completed my GCSE’s and then came to the decision just like other people at that age, whether I would go into a sixth form or go to college. Just like most people I decided the best option for me was to carry on at the place I was studying and go into their Sixth form. I chose to study 3 subjects: Media studies, Film Studies and Art as I am a very creative person and I feel that these really reflected my personality and allowed me to carry on studying the subjects I enjoyed. After finishing my two years of Sixth form I decided to start apply to agencies to get an apprenticeship, which isn’t the most obvious choice. Even though all my friends were going to university I didn’t feel like that was for me. I prefer to learn hands on rather than on paper. I knew the path I wanted to follow was in digital marketing or advertising and after researching I realised it wasn’t necessary for me to go to University to follow this dream. Although many people do not see this as the typical choice for an 18 year old to make I knew this was right for me. Reasons why I chose an apprenticeship over university: An apprenticeship appealed to me as I realised that a lot of employers are looking for experience over qualifications these days. I knew I wanted to work in digital marketing and after looking into jobs they were always asking for experience which university just did not offer me. One of the biggest things that swayed me towards doing an apprenticeship was the fact that you don’t get into any debt because you are earning whilst you’re learning. Apprenticeships are designed with the help of employers to offer a structured programme that coaches you through the skills you need to be successful in that particular industry; this allows you to get the practical and relevant experience you need. I found this more helpful to me as I am a practical person, I would rather be shown how to do something and try doing it myself than read about how to do it in a book. Having an apprenticeship allows you to receive the support and guidance you need when you do not understand how to do something. Unlike at university when after a lecture, if you don’t understand something the only real instant communication would be via email. An apprenticeship allows you to strengthen your CV with the transferable skills you learn. They are often useful and adaptable to most industries as your ability to interact within a social and professional environment will develop with everyday you spend at work which is a key reason why employers are keen on hiring apprentices. After going for many interviews with agencies and having interviews for roles at companies such as Google, I managed to land myself an interview at Swanstaff Recruitment. I instantly knew that this was somewhere I would love to work. The employees were friendly, bubbly and knew how to make the working day so much more enjoyable. When researching into Swanstaff I saw how many charity events they were involved in as well as seeing all the different things Swanstaff do as a company it made me even more enthusiastic to get the job. Throughout my time at Swanstaff everyday has been entertaining, everyone works extremely hard which appeals to me as I had been to interviews where they didn’t seem interested in pushing me exceed expectations. I am so glad I decided to go for an apprenticeship rather than going to university especially when talking to friends that did go to university and hearing all the problems they have had since being there. I cannot wait to learn more about Swanstaff and develop my digital marketing skills whilst growing within this organisation. Photo: Left to right: Steph dressed up for our Children in Need Disney and Dapper Day. Steph and at The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies Awards Evening. Steph Go-karting for a charity event) Are you currently looking for an apprenticeship? At Swanstaff we are constantly on the look out for new talent. If you think you've got what it takes to make it as an Internal Recruitment Apprentice then we may have the role for you! Get in touch with Lucy from our Talent Team by emailing her with your CV and a brief description as to why you think you could be a great swan: lucy.sutton@swanstaff.co.uk
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3 reasons you need to start your new job before Christmas
Job hunting is never easy but you may have noticed an increased number of jobs about in winter. This is because some companies will be trying to use up their recruitment budget before the end of the year. Some will offer jobs on a temporary to permanent contract, offering you a contract that will allow you both to decide if the job is right for you before making you permanent. If you’ve been thinking about looking for a new job but are planning to wait till January because you believe there will be more jobs then it may be worth checking these benefits of starting a new job in December first! Christmas is often a very social and positive time of year. It’s great for bonding and building relationships with colleagues. Christmas parties and get togethers will give you the chance to get to know the other staff in a more informal setting. Client facing roles will find December brilliant for introducing yourself and meeting them. People are often more relaxed and expect the visits and drops with gifts so are more open to seeing you. In contrast, some businesses find December to be a quiet period so this will give you the opportunity to get your training done and build an understanding of the business before things pick up again. So whether you’ve been debating that move for a while or just feel like you might like a new job for the New Year, go for it! If you are on the lookout for work then why not check out our current vacancies page to see if we’ve got the perfect job for you!
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Why Autumn is the best time to job search
Well even though the sun has decided to put in an appearance while I’m writing this it’s clear that the evenings are drawing in and it’s probably time we all accept that Autumn is on its way. Though it’s getting darker earlier, it’s not as gloomy a prospect as you might imagine. With no sunny afternoons and BBQ’s in the garden to distract you, what better time to invest your time in looking for that job you’ve always wanted? Still not feeling motivated? Not to worry, here are my top 4 tips for kick starting your autumnal career transformation so you’ll be blossoming in your new role by Spring! Make the most of those wet weekends and early sunsets. You’ve almost certainly got a little more time on your hands since going out in the evening has become an indoor only activity! Now is the perfect time to make a plan. Maybe set aside one or two evenings every week to your job search. FALL back in love with your career. Are you tired of your job or didn’t like your old job? Maybe the hours don’t suit anymore or the job isn’t what it used to be. They best way to fall back in love with your career is to sit down and write the things you like about your job and the things you don’t. Next think about a time you were happiest in your career. What’s changed since then? When beginning your job search it helps to know exactly what you are after and what things you need to avoid so that you don’t become unhappy in your next role. So what’s first with your search? Updating your CV! Like the spring clean before summer, autumn is the perfect time to spruce up your CV. Add new skills and qualifications you might have gained and update your work history. If you will be applying for a range of different roles it is worth taking the time to come up with a few different versions of your CV tailored to different positions. You can also take this time to set up a cover letter template to use when needed. So now you know what you want, you have the CV set up to get it and it’s time for you to start looking at all those job boards. Registering with as many agencies as possible will get you the maximum exposure. Autumn is a great time for job hunting, especially for temporary work in the run up to Christmas for some industries. So that’s my tops tips for your autumn job hunt. What would your tips be and do you agree that autumn is a great time of year for your career?
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How to negotiate your salary
So... you've bagged an employement offer, that's great well done! Although there's one thing wrong... it's not the salary you was hoping for or think you deserve, right? Not to worry! Follow our easy step by step guide on how to negotiate your salary!
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How to find a job on LinkedIn
For those who haven't yet heard of LinkedIn and aren't aware of what it is; in a nutshell it is an online social CV you create for youself. You can connect with many different people just like social media platforms, however it is a professional site, be wary not to post things you wouldn't want your boss seeing. If you're looking for a new job, LinkedIn is a good place to start your search. At least 500 million people use the network, and there are more than 10 million active job listings, Fortune magazine reported in 2017. If you're wondering how to use LinkedIn to find a job, you're best to follow our steps below:
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How to find a job on Twitter
Twitter has been around for over a decade now, and it doesn't look like it's going away any time soon. It's a great platform to express your voice and share your opinions. It's also a good place to engage with potential employers. Here's our simple guide to help you use Twitter to find your dream career.
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How to find a job on Facebook
As Facebook is a social media site in which majority of people have for personal use, you need to be wary of what you are posting if you decide to use it to job search. Some people create a second profile which they use purely to job search, this means that they do not share/post anything that an employer would deem unprofessional or that they wouldn't want their boss seeing. Follow our step by step guide on how to use Facebook to job search!
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Successful stars who started as apprentices
Apprenticeships have become more and more recognised as a valid career path in recent years. Here at Swanstaff we are dedicated to creating opportunities which is why we have some apprentices on staff. In honour of National Apprenticeship Week our Digital Marketing Apprentice, Amy, wrote the following piece about some famous faces who used to be apprentices. Some may surprise you! The Taste Of Success Firstly, Gordon Ramsey and Jamie Oliver, both nationally recognized, award-winning television chefs and personalities. That’s not all they have in common. They both started out their careers as catering apprentices! Looking Good Next we have Alexander McQueen, a famous and well respected fashion designer who started out as an apprentice tailor! Also John Frieda, celebrity hairdresser and maker of hair care products, began his career doing an apprenticeship in hairdressing. Funny How It Goes Successful actor, comedian, author and all round funny man Billy Connolly left school aged 15 to take up an apprenticeship as a welder in a shipyard. Another surprising person who started out in a shipyard (and not even just any shipyard, the same Glasgow shipyard as Connolly!) is Sir Alex Ferguson who worked as an apprentice tool worker while playing football part time at the start of his career. I just want to know what they were feeding them to produce such talent! Bring It, Sing It Which hugely famous singer songwriter trained as an electricians apprentice before he became a star? Elvis Presley who was still able to make sparks fly on the stage! Not to mention perhaps one of the best guitarists of all time, Eric Clapton, started out doing a vocational course in stained glass design before he turned to music. Showing Them How It’s Done Leonardo de Vinci, the artist who created the most famous painting in history, ‘Mona Lisa’ started as an apprentice painter! I can’t help but wonder whether his mentor had any idea how great his student would become? Something in the Water Film star Sir Michael “You're only supposed to blow the bloody doors off!” Caine trained as a plumber’s apprentice before he hit the big screen. Top actors Bob Hoskins and Gabriel Byrne were also trainee plumbers. But if you’ve got a plumbing emergency, maybe you should give the Prince of Darkness, Ozzy Osbourne, a call. Sure, he might try to remedy your problem by eating the local wildlife, but the godfather of heavy metal actually started out as a trainee plumber. Admittedly, his plumbing career was cut short when he ended up in prison. Plumbing’s loss, music’s gain I suppose! Green As Grass Finally, before he became an award winning gardener and author, green fingered celebrity, Alan Titchmarsh was a gardening apprentice with Ilkley Council. Developing his talents and also working in gardening journalism. So it would seem, apprenticeships really do give you the skills to succeed! Do you know any famous apprentices? Did any of these surprise you?
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How to prepare for a job interview
Preparing for an interview can be a scary process. But if you follow these simple tips then you’re one step closer to your dream job!
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6 Amazing Benefits Of Recruitment Process Outsourcing
We recently published our article “what role does outsourcing have in recruitment” and promised you more information on how RPO can benefit your company. Our full white paper is due out on April 1st but we thought we would give you a preview… Below are 6 key benefits of RPO and HR outsourcing: Increased Effectiveness One of the most important benefits of RPO is scalability. Many employers have vastly fluctuating recruitment needs, due to industry trends and seasonal activity. If that’s your business then RPO can scale up for busy periods and scale back down at other times. It is also useful for companies experiencing high growth who need help scaling their recruiting capacity to meet demand. Mitigating Risk With RPO recruiting, every element of recruitment can be monitored by your RPO supplier – allowing comprehensive tracking, reporting and auditing of the recruitment function. This allows companies to have a fully transparent system and feel assured that high standard of training and compliance are in place and that their processes protect both them and employees. Improved Efficiency – reduced recruiting costs This is one of the top reasons why businesses choose RPO solutions; it is also one of the biggest benefits of RPO. Many companies will spend a lot of money on head-hunters or trying to recruit in house and taking staff away from their other duties. Particularly for companies with a high turnover rate this can waste money and resources. A significant advantage of an RPO agreement is the reduction in time to fill a vacancy – which improves the overall efficiency of the business. Increased Candidate Quality A great candidate is more than just experience and qualifications. Things like personality and company culture/team fit are vital. If hiring managers are pressed for time to fill a position or have a huge volume of applications to sift through, they may not look at these additional things which can help you know whether a candidate will have longevity. A good RPO supplier will take time to assess your company culture, skills sets for roles and special requirements. These will then be at the centre of their candidate sourcing process. This also results in an enhancement of your employer brand and values. Detailed Insights – Analytics and reporting to aid with prompt decision making RPO suppliers will utilise specialist technology platforms, like Swanstaff’s S-Recruiter which allows for “real time” reporting at a click of a button. With features such as the ability to authorise timesheets, have visibility of hiring costs and generate detailed analysis reports your hiring process becomes seamlessly integrated and stress-free to monitor. A Bespoke, Tailor-Made Hiring Process A fantastic advantage of an RPO is having a dedicated account manager and support team that will look at every aspect of your hiring process. From company culture audits, to candidate sourcing, to bespoke induction programmes, an RPO really can be a “one-stop” solution. Equally, you may only wish to outsource certain stages of your recruitment process and there are flexible solutions available, whatever your needs. Here at Swanstaff Recruitment we have the capacity to create bespoke, comprehensive RPO services. We can support you at every stage of the hiring process, including proactive candidate sourcing, competitive market mapping, initial screenings, interview scheduling (including travel and meeting room arrangements), interview feedback, contract negotiation, new hire on-boarding, and post-placement follow up. We will work in partnership with you to create a recruitment structure which is perfect for your team and organisation. To find out more click here.
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How to use social media to find a job
Social media and social networking are popular tools right now on both a personal and a business level. It’s human nature to want to connect and so we are all doing it more and more often. Online offers such an easy avenue to make connections on platforms where we can be introduced to a wider network of people. This is perhaps why a lot of job seekers are taking their job hunt social! If you are unsure of how to start your job search online here are our top tips: USING LINKEDIN FOR YOUR JOB SEARCH Create a detailed LinkedIn profile. Don’t forget to fill in as much as you can. This can act like an online CV and by using keywords you can help potential employers and recruiters to find you. Follow the business pages of companies you’d like to work for. Not only will you be able to see if/when they advertise vacancies but you may also learn some useful things about the company that you can mention in an interview. Network! Network! Network! The best part of LinkedIn is the fact that you can network with a number of people very easily. If you are looking for work in a specific sector, you can connect with recruiters and industry professionals to aid in your search. The best way to do this would be to use the search function to find a recruiter, for example “HGV Recruiter Kent”. Once you have found one you can ask to connect with them. It may be worth at this point personalising your message and saying something like “Hi ——, I am a HGV2 Driver in Kent and I’m currently looking for work. Check out my profile and if you think you have any vacancies that might suit me, please let me know. Many thanks —–“ Get your colleagues/ex-colleagues to endorse our skills our post recommendations for you on your page. USING FACEBOOK FOR JOB HUNTING Make sure your profile is “employer friendly”. Try to either hide inappropriate photos or make sure you are not tagged in them – or you could change your privacy settings so that only your profile image and banner image are visible to people you aren’t connected with. Also make sure that nothing on your profile is controversial or political as this can sometimes lead to bias when someone is looking you up. Use Facebook to let family and friends know you are job seeking. You never know who might know someone who can help you or can share a vacancy they have heard about. Facebook groups! We cannot sing the praises of these enough. You can search for Facebook groups for example “Jobs in Kent” and this will come up with a number of results. Join any relevant groups. Then you can see people posting current vacancies in your area or alternatively post yourself. However, there are a few things to need to know: – When posting keep it professional “want work”, “need work now” and “work?” are not going to cut it! Instead try to be more detailed. “Hi, my name is Susie and I’m a Healthcare Assistant. I have three years’ experience in a care home where I sometimes covered for the deputy care home manager when needed and have worked as Team Leader for the past 6 months. I have a Health and Social Care Level 3 qualification. I’m looking for full time work in Kent as I can drive and am willing to travel. I have references on request. Please feel free to message me here or click this link for my LinkedIn profile to find out more about my experience.” – Engage with other posts. If you see someone else looking for the same type of work as you, click the small arrow in the top right corner of the post and “turn on notifications” to see when people comment on it and what they say. – Engage with Recruiters. A lot of recruiters post within these types of groups. It is usually quite obvious when it’s a recruiter posting. If one posts about something similar to the type of work you are looking for, you can comment and say “I know you are looking for Support Workers but do you have any Healthcare Assistant Jobs at the moment?” It can’t hurt to ask! HOW TO MAKE YOUR TWITTER PROFILE WORK FOR YOUR JOB SEARCH! Put your job pitch in your Twitter bio. For example “Hi I’m Susie, Healthcare Assistant, Mother, Friend, Looking for work in the #Kent area” You can let your personality show through if you would like to but remember to keep it professional and try to avoid using slang. Use a professional-looking avatar. Try to get a professional headshot type photo – like the one you would use for LinkedIn – or pick a photo that shows you in a good light. Not falling out of a bar! Tweet about your job search. Letting people know you are looking can really help your search. However if your profile is private, people aren’t going to be able to see your tweets and if you are job hunting whilst still in work you don’t want to publically tweet in case your current employer sees it. Include a link to an online CV in your bio. The best way to do this would be to link to your LinkedIn profile. You will need to make sure this is complete and up to date. It should be detailed enough for an employer to be able to decide if they would like to contact you. Some of these tips may seem obvious but you’d be surprised how many people make these mistakes! Do you have any other tips you’d give to someone looking for work and trying to use social media? To find out all the jobs Swanstaff currently have available in your area, please visit the jobs page on our website here.
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A day in the life of a Business Administration Apprentice
National Apprenticeship Week – A Business Administration Apprentice Story The following is written by Tamzyn Roscoe, a Business Administration Apprentice here at Swanstaff Recruitment. I decided to do an apprenticeship because I wanted to get straight into working rather than continuing education at college or University. After looking into it, I discovered an apprenticeship would be the best option, as I could still get my qualifications whilst also gaining experience. It’s a great way to get the skills employers are always asking for, while still getting paid and gaining a nationally recognised qualification along the way. A day in the life of a Business Administration Apprentice here at Swanstaff Recruitment can include anything from answering the phone at reception and directing the calls to in depth client mapping tasks. I can find myself posting job adverts for our branches one minute and completing coverage reports and data cleansing the next. My role is so varied and constantly evolves to meet the needs of the business. Nadine Agasi, PA to the Directors and Tamzyn’s manager said: “Tamzyn really is a credit to Swanstaff. This is partly to do with her personality and work ethic, and partly thanks to her apprenticeship. Throughout the course she has gained confidence and skills to become a valuable member of this team. As someone who was initially sceptical about apprenticeships and not sure they would produce the right sort of person, I have been thoroughly converted! If you are currently considering taking on an apprentice, I would highly recommend it.” If you’d like find out more about apprenticeships click here If you’d like to find an apprenticeship, you can search here To find out more about the company I work for Swanstaff Recruitment, you can click here.
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A day in the life of an Accounting Apprentice
The following is written by Nathan Shutt, an Accountancy Apprentice here at Swanstaff. A normal work day for an Accounting apprentice like myself consists of inputting the day’s cash into the accounting software, collating all the relevant remittances and reconciling the bank once all the cash has been input. I would then either go on to doing any invoice queries that are outstanding or I would chase any clients for PO’s we are waiting for. I would also enter any invoices that need to go onto a 3rd party system around this. Some of my day would be dealing with any new client clearances that the branches may have during the day, which means I need to create the necessary client accounts and link them up so when the invoices are generated they get billed to the correct account. Another responsibility I have is to take calls for the Credit Control department throughout the whole day for any client to relay queries to ourselves and then I can deal with them accordingly. In the afternoon, I would either continue with any remaining queries/PO’s outstanding or if there was none to do, I would instead be inputting and scanning in the days cheques received in the post. If it is the latter half of the week, I would start checking the week’s invoices for any errors, seeing if they can be corrected and if not enter them onto the error log report. After all the invoices have been checked, I scan them into our emails to be sent out by the automated invoicing software. As it gets to the end of the day, I finish up on any last minute queries that need to be dealt with and I retype any invoices that need it, for PO purposes or general invoicing structure. Finally, before I leave for the day I tidy up on a bit of filing to keep myself organised and set up tasks for tomorrow If you’d like find out more about apprenticeships click here. If you’d like to find an apprenticeship, you can search here. To find out more about the company I work for Swanstaff Recruitment, you can click here.
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A day in the life of a Marketing Apprentice
National Apprenticeship Week – My Story The following is written by our Marketing Apprentice, Amy. As you may or may not know, this week is National Apprenticeship Week. I’ve decided this might be a good time to share my story. It took a long time for me to work out what I wanted to do when I “grew up” but essentially for me it boiled down to a love of creativity and writing, which led to the BTEC Media course I took at college. After I had completed the course I still wasn’t sure what I wanted to do next, so I ended up as an Office Administrator in an Estate Agent. Whilst I loved the people and the world of work, I knew this wasn’t something I wanted to do for the rest of my life. A number of people suggested I go to University, but I wanted money and independence rather than a mountain of debt. I know there’s more to Uni than debt – for a lot of people it’s really important on a social and educational level – but I knew it wasn’t for me. This was when I discovered Apprenticeships. My parents were very supportive and thought they were a great idea, which was brilliant as I knew a lot of people whose parents didn’t really understand them. I knew right away the hands-on style of working that apprenticeships offered was for me. Earning, learning and no debt; it was perfect! I took my Level 2 Apprenticeship in Social Media for Business at Springfield Education and Training Ltd, before moving to Swanstaff Recruitment for my Level 3 Digital Marketing Apprenticeship. Throughout both levels of my Apprenticeship I have gained knowledge, skills, and experience; both of marketing and the way businesses are run in general. I feel like they have really given me the opportunity to flourish and develop personally and professionally. My confidence has grown significantly and I love being a member of a dynamic team. I am trusted with tasks and projects that I can plan and really take pride in. I feel very fortunate to have found a career that I enjoy so much. Anyone who says an apprenticeship is just about making teas and coffees (though I do make a great cuppa!) has clearly never experienced one. The best thing about my job is working with great people who really believe in my abilities and encourage me every step of the way. I have even been lucky enough to take part in charity events, attend awards evenings and go to parties. It’s a real experience to be an apprentice and not just work wise! If you’re umm-ing and ahh-ing about University then I’d definitely recommend an apprenticeship as another valid option. An apprenticeship won’t stop you from going to university in the future but it may help you decide exactly what you want to do, so that you can pick a course you know you’ll enjoy. If you’d like find out more about apprenticeships click here If you’d like to find an apprenticeship, you can search here To find out more about the company I work for Swanstaff Recruitment, you can click here
What candidates say about us
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"I found it heartening when the members of the panel referenced the good relationship they had with Swanstaff and then mentioned Lucy by name. It was obvious that they felt they had received a very acceptable level of service historically from Lucy personally, and from Swanstaff generally. I have no reservation at all in commending Lucy for her dedication to me during the process. And now that I have settled in position, she still keeps in touch with me, displaying genuine interest in how I am faring at my new role. Thanks Lucy, you are a star!"
Healthcare Candidate
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"I would firstly like to thank you for giving me so much work for the next month, I've been struggling for the past few months trying to get my job back in care. This means so much to me I'm so happy you changed my life I'm so excited I can't wait to work my first shift tomorrow"
Housna
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"I’m really grateful you have been professional and made me feel at ease throughout this job searching process and Swanstaff made it really easy for me to feel welcomed at the agency."
Georgia
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I have used many agencies in the past few months and can honestly say that yourself and colleges did an excellent job in keeping me informed all the way with feedback from interviews which I haven’t from any other agency’s. You and your team have always been there to answer any questions or queries and it is me that should be thanking you for all the work you have put in and selecting me for this position.
David Crier
Permanent Candidate
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"100% Satisfaction, it was a really good experience for me. I can highly recommend Swanstaff Recruitment agency. They are really professional, I didn't have to wait every day for a call they planned everything earlier so I could work around my shifts. One big thank you for you all"
Maria
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Emily, Thanks again for all your help. Can I just say I have been very impressed with all that you have done for me. I have applied for many roles over the last month and the communication I have received from you has been excellent. It goes along way as most people I have dealt with never got back to me at all so thanks again.
Mark
Permanent Candidate
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"During a lengthy recruitment process, Tom was in touch regularly and provided any input he could in order to help me as a candidate. He listened to me – and gave me what I needed in terms of insights about the corporate culture, the management style, what the senior leadership team were really interested in seeing during interview. This meant I was always as well briefed as I could be. And as an agent for the client, he gave a good impression of the company which helped me prioritise my activities."
Permanent Candidate
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"Everyone at the Ipswich branch is always polite, efficient and professional"
Robert
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"The Service is generally very professional and Swanstaff are undoubtedly the best agency I have worked for."
Vanessa
Ipswich Candidate
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I want to thank you for sharing this opportunity with me in the first place. The experience of working with you and Swanstaff has been an amazing journey with the abundance of professionalism, knowledge, honesty, integrity and above all candidate experience and expectations.
Andrew
Permanent Candidate
